Volkswagen have announced that later this month, the largest model in the commercial vehicle range will be getting a greatly anticipated update.
Volkswagen's multi-award-winning Crafter van is about to get an upgrade. In the coming weeks, VW will be launching the updated Crafter to market. The auto giant is gearing up to unveil a facelift for one of its most popular utility vehicles. While retaining much of its iconic exterior, the upcoming version boasts a host of technological enhancements within that are sure to make your daily drive a lot smoother.
If it’s not broken don’t fix it!
The changes throughout the exterior are subtle, the new VW Crafter carries over its successful three-bar grille design and sizeable square headlights, resembling the former model. However, the real magic happens inside, where state-of-the-art infotainment and user interface systems will get you where you need to go with fewer distractions and more convenience.
Underneath the bonnet, the 2024 VW Crafter keeps its trusted 2.0-litre engine range, offering choices of 140hp, 163hp, and 177hp, and the option of a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic gearbox. As a bonus, VW promises heavy-duty versions that will allow for higher gross vehicle weights.
Updates to the interior
The 2024 model will feature an all-new digital cockpit, replacing old-school dials with digitally displayed speed and rev counters. Drivers can customise different layouts according to their preferences, even displaying navigation and entertainment system details right in front of them.
Unveiling a first among its fleets, VW has confirmed the 2024 Crafter will sport a visually free-standing infotainment screen, offered in two large sizes—10.3 and 12.9 inches. This transformative setup, first seen on the ID. Buzz, comes with two permanently active touch bars and a home button that simultaneously showcases all apps.
Additional Technology
With the introduction of an electronic parking brake, there'll be plenty of extra storage space on the dashboard. Moreover, an automatic gear version's gearshift has conveniently moved to the steering column, which means even more room in the cabin.
Tech-savvy drivers will appreciate the switch to USB-C sockets for device compatibility and a wireless charging slot for smartphones. A strategically positioned USB-C socket high above the windscreen powers devices such as dash cams and sat-navs, ensuring a clutter-free cabin and an unobstructed field of vision.
VW makes driving more interactive with a new digital voice assistance feature integrated with ChatGPT. This will allow drivers to communicate with their van in a more natural way.
Overall, the changes reflect VW's commitment to blending practical design with advanced technology, and the 2024 VW Crafter's launch will no doubt set a new benchmark for commercial vehicles. Keep an eye out for this game-changer coming soon to a showroom near you.